Accommodation in Johannesburg, South Africa
Review: Voco Johannesburg Rosebank, Gauteng, South Africa
By Jared Ruttenberg – June 23, 2024
Rising high in the heart of Rosebank, one of Johannesburg’s most popular suburbs, the 16-story building known as The Bank houses one of South Africa’s smartest new hotels. Barely two years old, voco Johannesburg Rosebank has quickly made a name for itself. On a recent work trip, I finally got the chance to experience the acclaimed voco magic for myself.
The Welcome
If you’re driving to the hotel, the friendly concierge team is ready to welcome you, help with your luggage, and park your car. You’re automatically added to a WhatsApp group, which makes requesting your car easy—just send a message and your car will be brought to the front door within minutes. For those arriving via the Gautrain, which connects Rosebank with the airport, the hotel even sends a golf buggy to pick you up from the station—a very convenient touch.
The Room
After being thoroughly impressed with the hotel’s interiors, I was eager to see my room. The room lived up to my expectations with subtle design elements reminiscent of 1920s Art Deco styling. The bedrooms are beautiful urban sanctuaries spread across six stories of the building, featuring soft touches, fine white linen, and Antipodes plant-based bath products. I was delighted to find the latest edition of YOURLUXURY Africa magazine next to the bed, which included one of my international travel pieces.
Johannesburg, often referred to as the City of Gold because of its history as a gold mining settlement, also offers spectacular sunsets. From voco’s elevated position, these daily sunsets turn the sky into a canvas of red, yellow, and gold. In the late afternoon, sunlight flows into the rooms, creating a warm, inviting atmosphere until the sun descends beyond the horizon.
The Facilities
Three stories of the building are dedicated to Workshop17’s shared workspace solutions. Workshop17, which has locations across South Africa and Mauritius, offers flexible coworking, meeting, and event spaces. Guests have access to the cafe and hot desks and can easily book a meeting room if needed.
voco Johannesburg Rosebank is home to over 700 original South African artworks that adorn the walls and public spaces on every floor, offering a gallery-like experience during your stay. The public spaces also feature two Eduardo Villa sculptures and a huge mural in the courtyard by the world-renowned artist Cameron Platter. The Art Butler offers guided tours to showcase the hotel’s hidden artistic gems, enhancing the overall guest experience.
The Location
Rosebank is one of Johannesburg’s most attractive locations, transformed into a vibrant multipurpose district over the last decade. Just steps from the hotel, you’ll find the Rosebank Art and Craft market, The Zone @ Rosebank, Mall of Rosebank, and The Firs, all offering endless shopping options.
Dining at voco
voco’s in-house eatery, Proud Mary, is an exemplary restaurant that spans the ground level of the hotel and extends onto the pedestrian walkway. The space is stylishly curated with numerous dining enclaves to choose from. The mixology is world-class, with an onsite mixologist offering more than 100 exclusive cocktails. The sommelier, Katlego, provides a stellar wine selection. I highly recommend trying the Pork Belly—it’s honestly the best I’ve ever had.
The Cost
Rates depend on room type and season, starting at R3,5550 or R3,750 inclusive of breakfast for two. voco is part of the InterContinental Hotels Group, so you can redeem and earn points on your stays.
The Best Bit
During my three-day stay, I got to know many of the staff personally, and I’ve rarely encountered such a vibrant and engaging team. I left thinking if this is the impression foreign visitors get of my country, they’ll surely plan their next visit. While many luxury hotels offer comfortable beds and lovely amenities, it’s the staff that often makes all the difference.
The Final Verdict
voco Johannesburg Rosebank offers an enticing stay with its world-class design, convenient location, and sumptuous dining options. Having reviewed several of the city’s hotels, I now have a firm favorite for future visits to Johannesburg.